This Creamy Yogurt Cake (No Flour, Butter or Oil) is a beautifully simple dessehttps://happinessdish.com/dessert/rt that proves you don’t need traditional baking ingredients to create something rich, satisfying, and comforting. With just three basic components and a quick preparation process, this cake delivers a soft, creamy texture that sits somewhere between a classic baked cake and a delicate cheesecake.
What makes this recipe especially appealing is its simplicity. There’s no flour to measure, no butter to soften, and no oil to balance. Instead, the structure comes from eggs, the creaminess comes from yogurt, and a small amount of cornstarch gently stabilizes the mixture. The result is a cake that feels light yet indulgent, with a smooth interior and a lightly set exterior.
This Creamy Yogurt Cake (No Flour, Butter or Oil) works perfectly as a snack, a light dessert, or even a simple breakfast-style treat when paired with fruit. It’s also incredibly versatile because it can be baked in a traditional oven or cooked in an air fryer, depending on your preference and available equipment.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Yogurt Cake
One of the standout qualities of this cake is how effortlessly it comes together. The batter takes just minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy days or last-minute cravings. Despite its simplicity, the finished cake feels thoughtful and refined.
The texture is what truly sets this recipe apart. Once chilled, the cake becomes smooth and creamy, with a custard-like center that melts gently on the tongue. The edges are slightly chewy, offering a pleasant contrast that keeps each bite interesting.
Because there’s no flour, butter, or oil, the flavor remains clean and focused. The yogurt provides a subtle tang and natural sweetness, while the eggs give the cake enough structure to slice cleanly after chilling.
Ingredients (With Exact Measurements)
- 1 2/3 cups (400 g) nonfat vanilla Greek yogurt
- 4 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons (32 g) cornstarch
These three ingredients are all you need to create this Creamy Yogurt Cake (No Flour, Butter or Oil).
Understanding the Ingredients
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt forms the base of this cake. Using a thick, sweetened vanilla Greek yogurt ensures a creamy texture and mild sweetness without adding extra sugar. The thickness of Greek yogurt is essential here, as it creates the cake’s smooth consistency.
Eggs
Eggs act as the binding and structural element in this recipe. When whisked thoroughly into the yogurt, they help the cake set during baking while keeping the interior soft and creamy.
Cornstarch
Cornstarch plays a subtle but important role. It absorbs excess moisture from the yogurt, allowing the cake to firm up without becoming dense. You won’t taste it, but you’ll notice its effect in the cake’s final texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Lightly spray a 6-inch (15 cm) round cake pan with nonstick cooking spray. Line the entire interior with a single sheet of parchment paper, pressing it into the sides and bottom. Allow the parchment to extend slightly above the pan edges. The edges may appear wrinkled, which is completely fine and adds to the rustic appearance of the cake.
Step 2: Mix Yogurt and Eggs
In a large mixing bowl, add the Greek yogurt and eggs. Using a whisk, mix thoroughly until the eggs are fully incorporated and the mixture looks smooth and uniform. Take your time here—proper mixing ensures an even, creamy texture.
Step 3: Add Cornstarch
Sprinkle the cornstarch evenly over the yogurt mixture. Whisk again until the batter is completely smooth and no lumps remain. The batter should be slightly thick but pourable.
Step 4: Pour the Batter
Carefully pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top if needed, ensuring an even surface.
Cooking Methods
This Creamy Yogurt Cake (No Flour, Butter or Oil) can be cooked using either an air fryer or a conventional oven. Both methods work well, though they produce slightly different results.
Step 5A: Air Fryer Method
Preheat the air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Place the cake pan into the air fryer basket. Cook for 20–23 minutes, or until the cake has puffed up, the surface appears lightly caramelized, and the center is no longer liquid or jiggly.
Remove the pan from the air fryer. The cake will deflate slightly as it cools, which is normal.
Step 5B: Oven Method
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Place the pan on the center rack and bake for 70–75 minutes. The cake should rise, develop a lightly browned surface, and set fully in the center.
Once removed from the oven, the cake will deflate more noticeably than the air fryer version, and the surface may wrinkle slightly.
Step 6: Cooling and Chilling
Allow the cake to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours. For best flavor and texture, chilling overnight is recommended.
Before serving, remove the cake from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15–30 minutes.
Texture and Flavor Profile
This Creamy Yogurt Cake (No Flour, Butter or Oil) has a soft, custard-like interior that feels luxurious without being heavy. The flavor is mild and gently sweet, making it easy to pair with toppings if desired. The exterior forms a delicate skin that adds structure without dryness.
Sweetness Adjustments
Because the sweetness comes primarily from the yogurt, the cake is lightly sweet. If you prefer a sweeter dessert, you can drizzle honey over individual slices or serve it with fresh fruit. The neutral flavor also works beautifully with berries or citrus.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Always keep the cake chilled to maintain its structure.
- This cake is best enjoyed slightly cool or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve plain for a clean, creamy dessert
- Pair with fresh berries or sliced fruit
- Enjoy with tea or coffee
- Drizzle lightly with honey before serving
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s simple, elegant, and incredibly satisfying, this Creamy Yogurt Cake (No Flour, Butter or Oil) is a perfect choice. It’s proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients or long prep times to create something truly special.
With its creamy texture, minimal ingredients, and versatile cooking methods, this cake is one you’ll come back to again and again.
